CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO)

Siyabonga Helping Hands, a Non-Profit Organization based in Pietermaritzburg with 35 staff, has a vacancy for the position of CEO

The Board of Directors invites applications for the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of a well-established non-profit organisation dedicated to providing education and psychosocial support to vulnerable children. We seek to recruit  a dynamic, visionary, and experienced leader who possesses a strong track record in strategic and organizational management,  stakeholder engagement, and programme delivery. The successful candidate will demonstrate a deep commitment to social impact and the empowerment of children through education and holistic care.

         Location: Pietermaritzburg

         Job Type: Permanent Role

Key Performance Areas

• Strategic Leadership and Organizational Management
  • Ensure consistent progress towards the organization’s mission and strategic objectives.
  • Oversee the day-to-day operations and ensure sustainable and effective long-term performance.
  • Lead, coach, and develop senior staff and ensure the organization is appropriately resourced.
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful working environment, free from discrimination and harassment.
  • Promote effective human resource practices, including performance evaluations, grievance management, and staff well-being.

• Financial Accountability and Resource Management
  • Be accountable for the development of financial strategies and ensure sound fiscal management and compliance with all statutory and donor requirements.
  • Be accountable for organizational budgets, ensure accurate financial reporting, and manage cash flow projections.
  • Ensure the timely submission of financial reports to stakeholders, including grant funders and the SA Board.

• Advocacy, Fundraising and Stakeholder Engagement
  • Act as a spokesperson and advocate for the organization’s mission and values across multiple platforms.
  • Establish and grow strategic partnerships with donors, sponsors, government bodies, corporates, and foundations.
  • Work with development and fundraising teams to secure funding, including the preparation of grant proposals and reports.
  • Lead efforts in donor relationship management and cultivation of major giving opportunities, including overseas travel.
  • Represent the organization at public and community forums, maintaining a strong and credible presence.
  • Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders including the Boards of Governors, donors, community stakeholders, government representatives, partner organizations, business forums and NPO networks.

• Governance and Relations with SA and German Boards of Governors
  • Regularly report to and communicate with the Boards of Governors on inter alia strategic progress, operational performance, and financial health.
  • Support the Boards in governance matters, assist with recruitment and orientation of new SA Board members.
  • SA Board Meetings: Schedule regular meetings together with the Chairperson, prepare reports for SA Board meetings and follow through on SA Board directives.
  • Submission of Annual Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) Report to the Directorate of NPOs.

• Effective Service Delivery
  • Ensure high standards in delivery to beneficiaries.
  • Drive innovation in service provision to respond to community needs and sector developments.
  • Ensure accountability for performance outcomes and quality standards in all service areas.

• Policies and Procedures
  • Determine and implement policies and procedures relating to:
    • Human resources (HR) and employment
    • Financial controls
    • Conditions and obligations of sponsorships
    • Compliance and risk management

Knowledge and Competencies

• Strategic planning and Leadership
• Financial and Budgetary Management
• Human Capital and Stakeholder Management
• Governance, Compliance and Risk Management
• Fundraising and Donor Engagement
• Communication and Public Representation
• Organizational Development and Change Management
• Project and Programme Management
• Performance and Conflict Management
• Advanced Computer Literacy
• Good writing and reporting skills
• Children’s rights and dealing with minors
• Strong skills in building and maintaining relationships with the local neighbouring communities of the Siyabonga Centres
• Cultural sensitivity and emotional intelligence to understand and navigate the sensitive environment and needs of indigent children and families

Qualifications and Experience

• Postgraduate qualification in commerce, business management, leadership or similar
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience at a senior management level (NGO environment preferred)

Problem Solving and Innovation

• The CEO is expected to make high-level strategic decisions affecting the direction, sustainability, and performance of the organization, including:
  • Providing visionary and adaptive leadership in a dynamic and evolving context
  • Ensuring the organization remains agile and responsive to emerging opportunities and risks

Application Process

Interested and suitably qualified individuals should submit their CV’s, certified copies of relevant documents, a covering letter and two contactable referees to  sa-office@siyabonga.org

Applications must be received by the close of business on Friday, 14 November 2025.

The successful applicant should ideally be available to commence on 1 February 2026

As an NGO supporting orphaned and vulnerable children, Siyabonga Helping Hands requires police clearance from all prospective employees.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Should you not hear from us within 3 weeks of application, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Siyabonga Helping Hands for Africa reserves the right not to fill this position.